When It’s Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, you must work with care. First, you should put on a pair cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.
A quick solution to a damaged window is to place a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked not only make your home appear less appealing, but it can let drafts and other elements to enter the home. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are working correctly.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from dust, water bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the elements.
If the crack is getting bigger or is extensive, it is best to seek advice from an expert. An experienced glazier can identify the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a sharp object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double glazing repair Bethnal Green pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.
Another type of crack is a stress crack, that develops slowly over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be repaired. It is a curvy straight line that can stretch across the Window repairs Wisbech on one or more sides. It can be caused by low or high pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.
If you’re looking to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you’d rather take the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it did not have cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window or that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can worsen allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your house.
It’s best to call a professional if the water is visible or coming from outside. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.
In many cases, a thin caulking layer is all you need to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you’ll have clean the area and remove any existing caulking.
You’ll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they’re not blocked with debris. They’re designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
Examine the seal between the double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to get into the home.
Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of a leak. These are caused when the drywall is saturated by moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are known in the UK) separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. Nowadays, they’re used as a decorative element in a few older homes.
Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small group, leaving an opening in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle parts.
First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that will not leave residue. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter’s masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.
If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it’s best to replace the sash. In such cases you’ll need to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of style and size.
Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows are constructed of a full glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. These windows aren’t as energy efficient as traditional windows.
Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for about $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same function as a genuine mullion, or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a sign that you should call for help. If it’s not checked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a broken window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.
Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung cords for sash. It is easy to replace these cords on most double glazing repair Beaconsfield-hung window models. To begin, you’ll need to dislodge the metal tabs that hold the sash in place. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn’t matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to take it off. To reach the sash cords, you’ll need to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.
It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they’re not the same, it may be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at their proper locations on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you’ll also have to examine your window frame for any damage or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. If you find any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and Window Repairs Wisbech boiled Linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can refinish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.